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Learn How to Pronounce Kavala | YouPronounce.it

How to Pronounce Kavala

Quick Answer: In Greek, the name Kavala is pronounced [kaˈvala].
(Listen to the audio below for the stress and intonation)

Meaning and Context

Kavala is a major port city and capital of its regional unit in northern Greece, strategically positioned on the Bay of Kavala in the region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace. Founded in the 7th century BC as Neapolis, its rich history is layered with ancient, Byzantine, and Ottoman influences, making it a premier destination for cultural tourism. The city's iconic landmarks include the well-preserved Byzantine fortress atop the Panagia peninsula, the imposing 16th-century Kamares aqueduct, and the historic Imaret building—a former Islamic educational complex commissioned by Muhammad Ali Pasha, born in Kavala, which now offers a panoramic view of the Aegean Sea. As a gateway to the nearby island of Thasos and a hub for the tobacco trade and emerging energy sectors, Kavala blends its historical significance with vibrant modern life, offering visitors a compelling mix of archaeological sites, waterfront promenades, and renowned local gastronomy.

Common Mistakes and Alternative Spellings

The primary spelling is Kavala, which is used in English, Greek (Καβάλα), and most Romanized contexts. A common alternative transliteration from the Greek is Cavala, though this is less frequent in modern usage. Occasional misspellings arise from phonetic errors or keyboard slips, such as Kavalla (with a double 'l'), Kavela, or Kabala—the latter being a distinct term unrelated to the city. When searching for information, it is also useful to note the name of its ancient predecessor, Neapolis, and the name of the Ottoman-era monument, Imaret, which is sometimes misspelled as Imaret or Imaret.

Example Sentences

We spent the afternoon exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Kavala's old town, which led us up to the majestic Byzantine fortress.

Many tourists visit Kavala not only for its history but also to use it as a departure point for ferries to the pristine beaches of Thasos.

The restoration of the Imaret into a luxury hotel has been a landmark project for cultural heritage in the city.

During the annual Philippi Festival, the ancient theater just outside Kavala comes alive with dramatic performances.

Sampling the region's famous cured fish, psarosarmá, is an essential culinary experience for any visitor to Kavala.

Related Pronunciations



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